The Soviettes

The Soviettes have released their turbocharged pop-infused follow up to their debut LP on Adeline appropriately titled "LP II". Their sophomore effort clocks in at about 23 minutes so it is all over rather quickly, but the record is worth a listen and is quite good while it lasts. The Minneapolis based band conjures up fond memories of the early punk scene that exploded in Berkeley, California during the early 1990's: a time where 924 Gilman Street was the backdrop for the raw pop-filled punk soundtrack that labels like Lookout and Shredder were putting out. For their second release, the Soviettes belt out 14 tracks of dynamic, high energy pop-punk. LP II not only sheds much needed light on theTwin Cities but also expands on Adeline's ever-growing taste in the genre.

The primarily female quartet from Minneapolis have put out 14 new tracks on LP II which at it's core remains a fun excursion into punk's more poppy side while retaining the rawness and high energy feel that is missing from a lot of the overproduced radio friendly bands that are clogging the airwaves like sludge in a sewer pipe. What is missing from many bands is what makes The Soviettes new release such a fun listen. Sounding like the Go-Go's running on high-octane fuel the comparison to L7 or Bikini Kill might be evident but the sound is more raw and less heavy than the former and less angry and serious than the latter.

The opening track "Ten" showcases the bands faster side and also introduces the effective harmonizing of the vocals that is so ubiquitous on this record. The ultra-catchy "#1 Is Number Two" while being the natural choice for a single is also receiving a good amount of local radio play. Then there is the socially-conscious "Winning Is For Losers" and the raw garage rock sound on tracks like "Come On Bokkie!". "Channel X" nicely demonstrates the duelling male/female vocals that are prevalent throughout LP II and rather than sounding like X the band comes off sounding more like the B-52's on speed, all the while preserving their own individuality.

Where many bands seem to fall short in either the song-writing or the music The Soviettes manage to do both rather well and what we are left with is a catchy piece of pop-punk pie that many will appreciate amidst the utterly mediocre. The band fits right in on Adeline and solidifies their already strong lineup. The Soviettes have an energetic and fun record that simultaneously brings back the early 90's Gilman street scene while remaining fresh and palatable over 10 years later. Bon Appetit!